Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has issued an executive order that mirrors one from the White House.
The order bars the use of state funds for DEI and prevents agencies from considering diversity, equity and inclusion in their hiring decisions.
Kehoe said in a published statement that agencies must operate under a framework that ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making, with a commitment to what he calls a constitutional, color-blind approach.
State agencies are barred from using public funds With DEI in mind, including training, programs, or contracts and they have 90 days to review and align their programs and policies.
The governor said that while DEI practices are banned, state agencies must continue to enforce all federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination.